Pin it A comforting, creamy mac and cheese loaded with tender BBQ chicken and a touch of honey for sweet, smoky flavor&mdashall made in one pot for easy cleanup.
I first made this when I wanted a quick meal that didn't leave me with a mountain of dishes to wash.
Ingredients
- Chicken: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 400 g), diced, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Sauce: 1 cup (240 ml) BBQ sauce (your favorite style), 2 tbsp honey
- Pasta & Cheese: 350 g (12 oz) elbow macaroni (uncooked), 3 cups (720 ml) low-sodium chicken broth, 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk, 2 cups (200 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella cheese, 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- Topping (Optional): 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, 1/4 cup (25 g) crispy fried onions or bread crumbs
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until chicken is lightly browned (it does not need to be fully cooked through yet).
- Step 2:
- Stir in BBQ sauce and honey. Cook for 2 minutes, coating the chicken.
- Step 3:
- Add the uncooked macaroni, chicken broth, and milk. Stir to combine, ensuring the pasta is submerged.
- Step 4:
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Step 5:
- Stir in butter, cheddar, and mozzarella cheeses. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Step 6:
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Remove from heat.
- Step 7:
- Garnish with fresh parsley and crispy onions or bread crumbs if desired. Serve hot.
Pin it Our family loves gathering around this dish on busy weeknights; it's always a hit with the kids.
Notes
For a spicier kick, use spicy BBQ sauce or add a dash of hot sauce. Topping with crispy onions adds great crunch.
Required Tools
Large deep skillet or Dutch oven, Wooden spoon or spatula, Measuring cups and spoons, Cheese grater (if shredding cheese fresh)
Allergen Information
Contains: Dairy (milk, cheese, butter), Wheat (macaroni). BBQ sauce may contain soy or gluten&mdashcheck labels if concerned. Always double-check ingredient labels for allergens.
Pin it This dish combines ease with deliciousness perfectly, making every mealtime special.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What type of chicken works best?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for even cooking and tender texture, but rotisserie chicken can be used for convenience.
- → Can I use different cheeses?
Sharp cheddar and mozzarella provide a creamy, melty base, but smoked cheddar or other mild cheeses can add extra flavor.
- → How to make it spicier?
Use spicy BBQ sauce or add a dash of hot sauce during cooking for a mild kick.
- → Is the dish suitable for quick cooking?
Yes, the one-pot method reduces cooking time and cleanup, making it perfect for busy meals.
- → What can I use for toppings?
Fresh parsley and crispy fried onions or bread crumbs add texture and brighten flavors as finishing touches.